History & Community Involvement

A/C Tips to Keep Your Car Cool

July 19, 2011

Summer’s soaring temperatures can make driving a miserable experience if your vehicle’s air conditioner isn’t working correctly – especially if you live in or around the Midwest. Before you get caught in a “hot” air conditioning dilemma, use these tips to make sure your vehicle’s A/C brings its “A” game to the summer heat battle.

Leave it to the professionals-

If you haven’t done so already, take your vehicle to have the A/C checked and serviced. These systems are complicated and it’s best to leave it to the professionals. (See the end of this post for a dealership discount offer*) During your A/C checkup, qualified technicians should check the temperature of the air coming from your vents. A system is considered “functional” if it can produce air inside your vehicle that is 50°F lower than the outside temperature.

The most likely source of trouble in your system…

The most common problem in A/C systems is a low level of refrigerant, which is usually caused by a small leak. This is why technicians also look for any leaks in your A/C system. If any problems are found during your vehicle’s A/C checkup, service individuals examine the refrigerant pressure in the system, repair any leaks and refill the refrigerant to the proper level. A regular A/C tune-up usually involves checking the vehicle’s belt, as well. When they’re done, you get to drive home in a nice, cool vehicle!

If any problems are found during your vehicle’s A/C checkup, service individuals examine the refrigerant pressure in the system, repair any leaks and refill the refrigerant to the proper level. When they’re done, you get to drive home in a nice, cool, refreshed ride!

You can’t afford to ignore!

Between your vehicle’s scheduled A/C checkups, you can use the following tips to keep your A/C running smoothly, and avoid costly repairs in the long run:

In the winter months, turn on and run your A/C for at least 10 minutes once every month to prevent the hoses from hardening.

Check the condenser. Clean off any dirt and debris that may be blocking airflow through it.

Check the belt. Look for any wear and make sure it’s nice and tight.

Check the air filter. Replace it if it’s dirty.

Check the A/C operation when your vehicle is on:

Listen for strange noises.

Pay attention to whether or not the air is cold.

Feel to see if the air is coming from the correct vents.

Performance Auto group has many certified technicians waiting to give your car an A/C pick-me-up. Visit out dealership locator to see which of our 13 locations is nearest to you!*Currently, Performance Toyota of Lincoln has a complimentary A/C service check-up for all Toyota vehicles. Learn by viewing their Parts & Service Specials.